Antimicrobials and methods of use thereof for wound healing

ABSTRACT

This disclosure provides generally for antimicrobial compositions and methods of use comprising an anthocyanin, an anthocyanidin or metabolites thereof. Methods for promoting healing of a wound using these compositions are also disclosed. These compositions have broad spectrum antimicrobial activity and are safe for human and animal uses. Further, these compositions are safe for medical uses and industrial uses as antiseptic preparations to reduce or prevent microbial growth.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/818,275, filed May 1, 2014 which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to antimicrobial compositions and methods for promoting healing of a wound and more specifically to methods and compositions including the administration of an anthocyanin or an anthocyanidin or metabolites thereof for promoting wound healing by reducing or preventing microbial growth and inducing the activation of growth hormones. Pharmaceutical and nutraceutical compositions containing anthocyanin or anthocyanidins or metabolites thereof suitable for administration to a mammal for promoting or inducing wound healing are also described.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

There are many illnesses and conditions which are effectively treated by the application of suitable antimicrobial agents. Many microorganisms, however, are increasingly difficult to treat because of resistance or allergic reactions to current antimicrobial agents. The development of resistance is due in part to overuse of the antibiotic and subsequent bacteria mutation. (Blaser, M. Antibiotic overuse: Stop the killing of beneficial bacteria Nature 476, 393-394 (25 Aug. 2011).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated at least 2 million people in the United States become infected with bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics and at least 23,000 people die each year as a direct result of these infections. (Antibiotic Resistance Threats in the United States, 2013, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Ga., USA 2013). The CDC report classified three microorganisms with an antibiotic resistance threat level of urgent in the United States and twelve microorganisms with an antibiotic resistance threat level of serious. Specifically, Clostridium difficile, Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriacaeae (CRE) and drug resistant Neisseria gonorrhoeae (cephalosporin resistance) are classified by the CDC as urgent because they require urgent public health attention to identify infections and to limit transmission. Of these, the CDC states “Clostridium difficile is the most frequent etiologic agent for health-care-associated diarrhea. In one hospital, 30% of adults who developed health-care-associated diarrhea were positive for C. difficile. Risk factors for acquiring C. difficile-associated infection include a) exposure to antibiotic therapy, particularly with beta-lactam agents; b) gastrointestinal procedures and surgery; c) advanced age; and d) indiscriminate use of antibiotics. Of all the measures that have been used to prevent the spread of C. difficile-associated diarrhea, the most successful has been the restriction of the use of antimicrobial agents.” (Sehulster L, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Guidelines for environmental infection control in healthcare facilities. MMWR 2003; 52(RR10); 1-42). C. difficile is an anaerobic, gram-positive bacterium capable of sporulating when environmental conditions no longer support its continued growth. The capacity to form spores enables the organism to persist in the environment (e.g., on dry surfaces or in soil) for extended periods of time. Environmental contamination by this microorganism is well known, especially direct exposure to contaminated patient-care items and high-touch surfaces in patients' bathrooms have been implicated as sources of infection. The CDC stated, “More needs to be done to prevent C. difficile infections (CDIs). Major reductions will require antibiotic stewardship along with infection control applied to nursing homes and ambulatory-care settings as well as hospitals. State health departments and partner organizations have shown leadership in preventing CDIs in hospitals and can prevent more CDIs by extending their programs to cover other health-care settings.” (CDC, Vital Signs; Preventing Clostridium difficile infections, MMWR 2012; 61-157-62). Because C. difficile spores resist killing by usual hospital disinfectants, an Environmental Protection Agency-registered disinfectant with a C. difficile sporicidal label claim should be used to augment thorough physical cleaning.

Twelve serious antibiotic-resistant threats identified in the CDC report include: multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter, Drug-resistant Campylobacter, Fluconazole-resistant Candida (fungus), Extended spectrum β-lactamase producing Enterobacteriacaea (ESBLs), Vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE), Multidrug-resistant Psuedomonas Aeruginosa, Drug-resistant Non-typhoidal Salmonella, Drug-resistant Salmonella Typhi, Drug-resistant Shigella, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus auereus (MRSA), Drug-resistant Steprtococcus pneumonia, Drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR and XDR) (Antibiotic Resistance Threats in the United States, 2013, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Ga., USA 2013). Of the twelve serious antibiotic-resistant threats identified in the CDC report, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is the most frequently identified antimicrobial drug-resistant pathogen in U.S. hospitals. MRSA was one of the first pathogens to develop resistance, first detected the United Kingdom in 1961. In 1999, MRSA was responsible for 37% of fatal cases of sepsis in the UK. Additionally, half of all S. aureus infections in the U.S. are resistant to penicillin, methicillin, tetracycline and erythromycin, leaving only vancomycin as an effective agent against S. aureus; however, strains with intermediate levels of resistance, termed glycopeptide-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (GISA) or vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA), began appearing in the late 1990s and oxazolidinone, (linezolid) resistance in S. aureus was reported in 2001. Additionally, community-acquired MRSA (CA-MRSA) has now emerged as an epidemic that is responsible for rapidly progressive, fatal diseases, including necrotizing pneumonia, sepsis, and necrotizing fasciitis. Outbreaks of CA-MRSA infections have been reported in correctional facilities, among athletic teams and military recruits, and in nurseries.

In addition to resistance, current antibiotics also have a limited use due to allergic reactions in many patients (Romano A, Caubet J C. Antibiotic allergies in children and adults: from clinical symptoms to skin testing diagnosis. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2014 January-February; 2(1):3-12).

Not only does resistance and allergic reactions to current antimicrobial agents result in increased patient morbidity and even mortality, but ineffectiveness of current antimicrobial agents is also a major expense to society. Surgical infections are costly not only because of cost of treatment, including potentially hospitalization, but also the loss of productive work. This is exemplified in treatment of an infected total knee replacement. The relative incidence of operative infections was reported as 2.0% and 2.4% following total knee surgery. The most common cause of revision total knee surgery (25.2%) is infection. (Bozic K J et al. The epidemiology of revision total knee arthroplasty in the United States. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2010 January; 468(1):45-51). The annual cost of infected revisions to U.S. hospitals increased from $320 million to $566 million during the study period and was projected to exceed $1.62 billion by 2020. (Kurtz S M, et al Economic burden of periprosthetic joint infection in the United States. J Arthroplasty. 2012 September; 27(8 Suppl) The average cost of the surgical revision of an infected total knee replacement was $116,383 in the years 2001 through 2007. (Kapadia B H, et al. The Economic Impact of Periprosthetic Infections Following Total Knee Arthroplasty at a Specialized Tertiary-Care Center. J Arthroplasty. 2013 Oct. 17).

There is also a high cost to prophylactic antibiotic treatment prior to and around the time of surgery. (Chaweewannakom U. et al., Cost analysis of peri-operative antibiotic administration in total knee arthroplasty. J Med Assoc Thai. 2012 October; 95 Suppl 10:S42-7; Hebert C K, et al., Cost of treating an infected total knee replacement. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1996 October; (331):140-5). Furthermore, these costs may not be covered by government insurance in the U.S. especially with the large personal deductibles people have chosen under the Affordable Care Act. This problem already exists in Germany. This is a burden on the patient if they pay. If they do not pay then the cost is shifted to the doctor and the hospital. (Haenle M. et al. Economic impact of infected total knee arthroplasty. Scientific World Journal. 2012; 2012:1 96515).

Treatment of the failed infected total joint may include repeat surgery, removal of the implant, insertion of an antibiotic impregnated spacer, hospitalization, therapy and return at later date to remove spacer and redo the total joint with hospitalization and long term antibiotics. (Garg P, et al. Antibiotic-impregnated articulating cement spacer for infected total knee arthroplasty. Indian J Orthop. 2011 November; 45(6):535-540).

Fungal infections also are problematic and have become less susceptible to current antimicrobial agents. In hospitalized patients, fungal infections are the fourth common cause of blood stream infection. Candida albicans is the major fungal pathogen of humans. (Warren, N G, American Society for Microbiology; 1995. 723; Bachmann, S P, Antimicrobial Agents Chemother, 2002; 46: 3591). It has been reported that mortality rate of patients with catheter related candidemia approaches 40%. (Fux, C A, Trends Microbiol, 2005; 13(1): 34; and Tampakakis, E., Eukaryot Cell, 2009; 8:732). Biofilms of C. albicans are capable of holding other micro-organisms and more likely to be heterogeneous with other bacteria and fungi in the environment and on medical devices. (E Tampakakis, A Y Peleg, E Mylonakis. Eukaryot Cell, 2009; 8:732.) Moreover, biofilm cells are significantly less susceptible to antimicrobial agents. As a result, drug therapy for an implant infection may be futile, and often, the only solution is mechanical removal of the implant. (Melissa J J, et al, Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2009; 53(6): 2638; and Anderson, J B, Nat Rev Microbiol, 2005; 3(7): 547). Biofilm formation also plays an important role in outbreaks of C. albicans related infections.

As a result, there is a continuing need for new antimicrobials and compositions, which are effective in reducing or preventing microorganism growth. The new antimicrobials and compositions can have a broad spectrum of utility without a history of overuse or resistance. The new methods and compositions can be applicable to promoting healing of wounds. In addition, the antimicrobials and compositions would have no known allergic manifestation. Further the new antimicrobials and compositions would be cost effective. There is also a need for antimicrobial compositions that can be effectively used on various surfaces, including high-touch surfaces such as light switches and bathroom fixtures, medical devices, patient-care items, and the like to reduce microbial contamination.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In its various embodiments, the present invention provides generally for compositions and methods for reducing or preventing microbial growth, which are particularly useful for treating and promoting the healing of wounds. Specifically, the present invention provides methods and pharmaceutical and nutraceutical compositions that reduce or substantially eliminate microbes.

In one embodiment, a method of promoting healing of a wound in a mammal is provided; comprising administering an anthocyanin or an anthocyanidin to the mammal in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of the anthocyanin or anthocyanidin composition or compound wherein microbial growth is reduced and local growth hormone activity is optimized.

In a further embodiment, a method of promoting healing of a wound in a mammal is provided; comprising administering an anthocyanin metabolite or an anthocyanidin metabolite to the mammal in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of the metabolite or anthocyanidin metabolite compositions wherein microbial growth is reduced and local growth hormone activity is optimized.

Further, the invention provides methods and compositions that effectively deliver the compositions to the affected wound. The present invention provides compositions and methods for use in the treatment of a variety of wound problems, including but not limited to, burns, pressure wounds, abrasions, diabetic wounds, and skin infections. The present invention provides compositions and methods for use in the treatment of a variety of infections, including those from blood transfusions. Preferably, the therapeutic compositions and compounds are administered orally or topically; however, the therapeutic compositions and compounds may be administered by any conventional route including, for example, oral, topical, buccal, injection, pulmonary, intravenous, inhalant, subcutaneous, sublingual, or transdermal. Those of skill in the art can readily determine the various parameters and conditions for producing these compositions or formulations without resort to undue experimentation.

In one aspect, the present invention provides a pharmaceutical composition for promoting wound healing, comprising: a) an anthocyanin; or b) anthocyanidin. By way of example, the anthocyanin can be selected from cyanidin-3-glucoside or delphinidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-galactoside, and pelargonidin-3-galactoside. Also by way of example, the anthocyanidins can be selected from cyanidin, delphinidin, pelargonidin, malvidin and petunidin.

In one aspect, for example, the present disclosure provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising: a) an anthocyanin metabolite; or b) an anthocyanidin metabolite. In another aspect, the present invention provides for a pharmaceutical composition for promoting wound healing, comprising: a) an anthocyanin metabolite; or b) and anthocyanidin metabolite. By way of example, metabolites can be selected from protocatechuic acid and 2,3,4 trihydroxybenzaldehyde. In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising a phytochemical. In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising a pterostilbene formulation. In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a pharmaceutical composition comprising: a) a metabolite of an anthocyanin metabolite; or b) a metabolite of an anthocyanidin metabolite. By way of example, the metabolites are metabolites selected from protocatechuic acid, 2,3,4 trihydroxybenzaldehyde.

Further by way of example, the pharmaceutical composition can comprise: a) an anthocyanin; or b) an anthocyanidin; and c) a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Further by way of example, the pharmaceutical composition can comprise: a) an anthocyanin metabolite; or b) an anthocyanidin metabolite; and c) a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Further by way of example, the pharmaceutical composition can comprise: a) a pterostilbene formulation; and b) a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. By way of example, the pharmaceutically acceptable carrier can be selected from, but not limited to, any carrier, diluent or excipient compatible with the other ingredients of the composition.

Further by way of example, the pharmaceutical composition can comprise: a) an anthocyanin; and/or b) an anthocyanidin; and/or c) a pterostilbene formulation; and/or c) a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier; and/or d) an acceptable delivery carrier. By way of example, the delivery carrier can be formulated and administered as known in the art, e.g., for topical, oral, buccal, injection, intravenous, inhalant, subcutaneous, sublingual or transdermal Further, said topical delivery carrier may be formulated and administered to any surface, including but not limited to skin, bone, synovium, cartilage, and implants. By way of example, the acceptable delivery carrier can be selected from any dermal or transdermal carrier compatible with the other ingredients of the composition. In some embodiments, the acceptable delivery carrier is a biodegradable microsphere or a slow release bioadsorbable material. By way of example, the acceptable delivery carrier can be selected from 50/50 D, L lactide/glycolide or 85/15 D, L lactide/glycolide, both of which are amorphous physically and, therefore, are non-reactive when used as a carrier in a composition that is delivered in or to the body.

In yet another aspect and in other embodiments, the anthocyanidin provided in any recited composition is provided less than 200 mM and in other embodiments about 100 μM. In some embodiments, the anthocyanin or anthocyanidin provided in any recited composition or method of use is provided in a range of between 10 to 200 mM. In other embodiments, the anthocyanin metabolite or anthocyanidin metabolite provided in any recited composition or method of use is provided in a range of between 20 to 200 mM. In yet other embodiments, the anthocyanin, anthocyanidin, or metabolites thereof provided in any recited composition or method of use is provided in a range of between 20 to 100 mM. In yet other embodiments, the anthocyanin, anthocyanidin, or metabolites thereof provided in any recited composition or method of use is provided in a range of between 20 to 50 mM. In some embodiments, the metabolite is provided in any recited composition less than 100 mM and in others at 25 mM.

In one aspect, for example, the present disclosure provides for an antimicrobial composition comprising: a) an anthocyanin metabolite; or b) an anthocyanidin metabolite; or a phytochemical. By way of example, metabolites can be selected from protocatechuic acid, 2,3,4 trihydroxybenzaldehyde and a phytochemical can be a pterostilbene formulation. By way of example, the anthocyanin, anthocyanidin and metabolites thereof can have broad spectrum activity against disease-causing microbes. In another aspect of the present invention a method of treating a wound of an individual is provided, comprising administering any of the recited pharmaceutical compositions by topical application, transdermal, buccal, oral, gavage, and injection or intravenous.

The present disclosure also provides for methods for reducing microorganisms on any surface or liquid, comprising contacting a surface or liquid with any of the recited compositions.

The present disclosure also provides for compositions and methods for reducing microorganisms in foods comprising contacting a food with any of the recited compositions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 provides the minimum, maximum and optimum pH for growth of microorganisms. Acidic environments retard proliferation of various bacteria. Anthocyanins, anthocyanidins and main metabolites are unstable relative to basic pH; thus, anthocyanins, anthocyanidins and main metabolites thereof have the potential to lower the pH of wound tissue as well as any surfaces and act as bacteriocidal or bacteriostatic.

FIG. 2 is the metabolic pathway of cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G) and includes the chemical structures of cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin and their metabolites.

FIG. 3 is the chemical structure of Protocatechuic acid (PCA), a dihydroxybenzoic acid, a type of phenolic acid. It is a major metabolite of antioxidant polyphenols found in certain plants, including green tea.

FIG. 4 compares concentrations of C3G and PCA to determine optimal effective concentrations. Bacterial burdens for P. aeruginosa were compared after treatment with C3G or PCA at 48 and 96 hours. A concentration of PCA 25 mM was effective to reduce the bioburden with statistical significance at 48 hours. C3G at 100 and 200 mM concentrations were effective at reducing the bioburden at 48 and 96 hours.

FIG. 5 is a chart disclosing potential sources of PCA.

FIG. 6 is a table providing a summary of the effectiveness of certain anthocyanins, anthocyanidins and a metabolite, including bactericidal or bacteriostatic activity. During this test, the purity, concentrations and molecular weight of these test substances (compounds) were known. The carrier was water and the dose was accurately calculated. Delphinidin limited growth against C. perfringens, S. aureus, and MRSA. Pelargonidin limited growth of P. acnes, C. perfingens, S. aureus, MRSA, and S. pyogenes. Cyanidin Cl was effective against C. difficile, C. prefringens, S. aureus ATCH 6538, S. aureus (MRSA) ATCH 33591, S. mutans, and S. pyogenes. A proprietary formulation of cyanidin-3-glucoside (approximately 28% C3G by weight) had limited effectiveness during this study (18-24 hours for aerobes; 48 hours for anaerobes (C. albacans and L. casei); however, this C3G formulation, was effective against P. acnes, E. coli, MRSA, K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa. Protocathechuic acid (PCA), the main metabolite from anthocyanins and anthocyanidins, was effective against all bacteria tested as well as C. albicans and K. pneumonia. Importantly for skin wound treatment, PCA was effective against S. aureus 6538 and 33591 (MRSA) and P. aeruginosa. PCA was also effective on C. albicans, which is important considering its ability to form biofilms and difficulty in treating C. albicans when existing with a catheter or implant.

FIG. 7 is a table summarizing in vitro test results of 2,4,6 Trihydroxybenzaldehyde and demonstrating its ability to act as an antimicrobial, including as a bactericidal or bacteriostatic. Specifically, 2,4,6 Trihydroxybenzaldehyde was effective against E. coli, K. pneumonia, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus 6538 and 33591 (MRSA); further it was effective against a fungi, Aureobasidium pullulans, ATCC 15233.

FIG. 8A is a photographic image illustrating in vitro test results of 2,4,6 Trihydroxybenzaldehyde against P. aeruginosa.

FIG. 8B is a photographic image illustrating in vitro test results of 2,4,6 Trihydroxybenzaldehyde against S. aureus 33591 (MRSA).

FIG. 8C is a photographic image illustrating in vitro test results of 2,4,6 Trihydroxybenzaldehyde against P. acnes.

FIG. 9A shows the results of a rodent back skin tape study where concentrations of PCA and C3G in a vehicle of water were utilized to determine effectiveness against P. aeruginosa skin infections.

FIG. 9B shows the results of rodent back skin tape study where concentrations of PCA and C3G in a vehicle of water were utilized to determine effectiveness against P. aeruginosa skin infections.

FIG. 10A shows the results of an additional rodent back skin tape study to determine effective dosages of PCA and C3G in a vehicle of water that would be bactericidal for P. aeruginosa.

FIG. 10B shows the results of an additional rodent back skin tape study to determine effective dosages of PCA and C3G in a vehicle of water that would be bactericidal for P. aeruginosa.

FIG. 10C shows the results of an additional rodent back skin tape study to determine effective dosages of PCA and C3G in a vehicle of water that would be bactericidal for P. aeruginosa.

FIG. 11A shows the results of a rodent back skin study to determine the effects of PCA and C3G on the local growth hormones in untreated skin wounds of rodents. A concentration of 25 mM PCA increased local growth hormone levels of IGF-1 at the site of the untreated skin wound.

FIG. 11B shows the results of a rodent back skin study to determine the effects of PCA and C3G on the local growth hormones in untreated skin wounds of rodents. A concentration of 25 mM PCA increased local growth hormone levels of TGF-Beta at the site of the untreated skin wound.

FIG. 11C shows the results of a rodent back skin study to determine the effects of PCA and C3G on the local growth hormones in untreated skin wounds of rodents. A concentration of 25 mM PCA increased local growth hormone levels of EGF at the site of the untreated skin wound.

FIG. 12A is a photographic image of rodents treated with a topical solution of C3G (28%); at an acidic pH, this solution maintains a purple or red color and quickly metabolized at elevated pH levels, the C3G changes to a pink or even clear color. In mouse model experiments, however, as observed in the image, the purple color of C3G remained on the rodent wound surface scar, thus indicating the pH remained acidic on the wound surface. The C3G material on the surface was confirmed by subsequent histology.

FIG. 12B is a photographic image of tissue from a study utilizing the homogenized wound tissue method used in this study, whereby the purple color indicates that the wound probably retained an acidic pH.

FIG. 13A shows the IGF-1 response to 25 mM PCA in various environments, including tape stripped, tape stripped and infected with P. aeruginosa, tape stripped and treated with PCA, and tape stripped infected with P. aeruginosa, and PCA treated.

FIG. 13B shows the TGF-β response to 25 mM PCA in various environments, including tape stripped, tape stripped and infected with P. aeruginosa, tape stripped and treated with PCA, and tape stripped infected with P. aeruginosa, and PCA treated.

FIG. 13C shows the EGF response to 25 mM PCA in various environments, including tape stripped, tape stripped and infected with P. aeruginosa, tape stripped and treated with PCA, and tape stripped infected with P. aeruginosa, and PCA treated.

FIG. 14 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 15 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 16 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 17 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 18 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 19 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 20 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 21 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 22 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 23 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 24 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 25 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 26 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 27 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 28 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 29 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 30 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

FIG. 31 is a photographic image of a cross section of rodent skin.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Definitions

Unless otherwise indicated, all technical and scientific terms used herein shall have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the disclosed subject matter belongs. Unless otherwise indicated, the following definitions are applicable to this disclosure. All publications referred to throughout the disclosure are incorporated by reference in their entirety. To the extent any definition or usage provided by any document incorporated herein by reference conflicts with the definition or usage provided herein, the definition or usage provided herein controls.

As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a composition” includes mixtures or combinations of two or more such compositions.

Throughout the specification and claims, the word “comprise” and variations of the word, such as “comprising” and “comprises,” means “including but not limited to,” and is not intended to exclude, for example, other components, extracts, additives, or steps. It is also contemplated that embodiments described as “comprising” components, the invention also includes those same inventions as embodiments “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of.”

Ranges can be expressed herein as “approximately” or from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value.

A weight percent of a reagent, component, or compound unless specifically stated to the contrary, is based on the total weight of the reagent, component, composition or formulation in which the reagent, component, or compound is included, according to its usual definition.

By “reduce” or other forms of the word, such as “reducing” or “reduction,” is meant decrease or lower a characteristic (e.g., inflammation, growth or viability of microorganisms).

By “promote” or other forms of the word, such as “promoting,” is meant to induce a particular event or characteristic, or delay the development or progression of a particular event or characteristic, or to minimize the chances that a particular event or characteristic will occur.

“Treat” or other forms of the word, such as “treating,” “treatment” or treated,” is used here to mean to administer a composition or to perform a method in order to induce, reduce, eliminate, and prevent a characteristic (e.g., inflammation, growth or viability of microbes). It is generally understood that treating involves providing an effective amount of the composition to the mammal or surface for treatment.

The term “vehicle” or “vehicle carrier” as used herein refers to mean the manner in which the reagents or compositions may be delivered, including as a liquid, salve, soap, foam, cream, solution, gel, spray, powder, wipes, antibacterial treatments, wipes and the like.

The term “wound” or “wound associated condition” as used herein refers to a medical condition when the integrity of any tissue is compromised (e.g., burns, skin breaks, bone breaks, muscle tears, punctures, surgical incision sites, microdermabrasion site, skin graft site). A wound may be caused by any act, infectious disease, underlying condition, fall, or surgical procedure. A wound may be chronic, such as skin ulcers caused by diabetes mellitus, or acute, such as a cut or puncture from a sharp object, an animal bite or a gunshot.

The term “growth factors” or “local growth factors” include but are not limited to, fibroblast growth factor (FGF), FGF-1, FGF-2, FGF-4, platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), insulin-binding growth factor (IGF), IGF-1, IGF-2, epidermal growth factor (EGF), transforming growth factor (TGF), TGF-β, TGF-α, and collagen growth factors, and/or biologically active derivatives of these growth factors.

By “bactericidal” or “antimicrobial” is meant the ability to effect (e.g., eliminate, inhibit decrease, or prevent) microorganism growth, viability, and/or survival at any concentration.

By “bacteriostatic” is meant the ability to effect (e.g., stabilize or prevent future growth or prevent new growth) microorganism growth at any concentration. A bacteriostatic compound, agent or reagent does not eliminate or kill the bacteria.

By “additive” or “food additive” is meant to the use as a component of any food (including any substance intended to sue in producing manufacturing, packing, processing, preparing, treating, packaging, transporting, or holding food).

By “antiseptic” is meant an antimicrobial reagent or composition that is applied to any surface, including skin or tissue, to effect (e.g., eliminate, inhibit, decrease or prevent) microorganism growth, viability, and/or survival.

By “disinfect” or other forms of the word, such as “disinfectant” or “disinfecting,” is meant decrease or lower a characteristic (e.g., eliminate, reduce, inhibit, decrease, or prevent) microorganism growth, viability or survival at any concentration. It is generally understood that disinfect involves providing an effective amount of the composition to any surface, but particularly hard surfaces.

By “sanitize” or other forms of the word, such as “sanitizer” or “sanitizing,” is meant decrease or lower a characteristic (e.g., eliminate, reduce, inhibit, decrease, or prevent) microorganism growth, viability or survival at any concentration. It is generally understood that sanitizing involves providing an effective amount of the composition to any surface. Further, it is generally understood that sanitizing solutions and sanitizing components are those solutions that may be safely used on food-processing equipment and utensils and on other food-contacting conditions.

By “isolated” or “an isolate” as it refers to either the compounds or reagents described herein means not 100% by weight but rather approximately 95% to 97% of the compound or reagent by weight.

The term “alkyl” as used herein is a branched or unbranched hydrocarbon group of 1 to 20 carbon atoms. Non limiting examples include methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, isobutyl, t-butyl, pentyl, hexyl, heptyl, octyl, nonyl, decyl, dodecyl, tetradecyl, hexadecyl, octadecyl, eicosyl, tetracosyl, and the like. Further, the alkyl group can also be substituted or unsubstituted.

The term “alkoxy” or “alkyoxy group” as used herein refers to a branched or unbranched hydrocarbon chain having from 1 to 15 carbons and linked to oxygens. Non-limiting examples include methoxy, ethoxy and the like.

The term “ProC3G™” (commercially available ChromaDex®, Inc. product) means a cyanidin 3-glucoside anthocyanin extracted from black rice and containing approximately 35% cyanidin 3-glucoside by weight with an additional 5% other anthocyanins.

The term “pterostilbene” as used herein refers to a dimethyl ether analog of resveratrol (trans-3,5-Dimethoxy-4′-hydroxy-E-stilbene or 3′,5′-Dimethoxy-4-stilbenol). The term “pTeroPure®” (commercially available ChromaDex®, Inc. product) means a proprietary formulation of pterostilbene.

The term “medicament” as used herein refers to any wound treatment, including but not limited to the group consisting of burn relief medications, anesthetic agents, wound cleansers, antiseptic agents, scar reducing agents, immunostimulating agents, antiviral agents, antikeratolytic agents, anti-inflammatory agents, antifungal agents, acne treating agents, sunscreen agents, dermatological agents, antihistamine agents, antibacterial agents, bioadhesive agents, inhibitors of prostaglandin synthesis, antioxidants, and mixtures thereof.

Unless stated to the contrary, a formula with chemical bonds shown only as solid lines and not as wedges or dashed lines contemplates each possible isomer.

The term “nutraceutical” as used herein refers to any food stuff, including a dietary supplement or fortified food, provided for potential health and medical benefits.

Reference will now be made in detail to specific aspects of the disclosed materials, compounds, compositions, and methods, examples of which are illustrated in the following description and examples, and in the figures and their descriptions.

The present invention provides methods, compositions and uses for treating and promoting healing of a wound. More specifically, the methods and compositions described herein include the administration of an anthocyanin or an anthocyanidin or metabolites thereof for promoting wound healing by reducing or preventing microbial growth and inducing the activation and or optimization of growth hormones.

The methods and compositions are used for the treatment of mammals, including humans. As with humans, there is a need for new antimicrobial compositions for the treatment of animals, including equine, canine and feline, due to resistance or allergic reactions to current antimicrobial compositions or agents. Therefore, the methods and compositions disclosed herein will be useful for the treatment and promotion of wound healing in livestock as well as domestic pets and will have broad-spectrum activity against microbes.

The present invention also provides methods, compositions and uses for treating surfaces and liquids to reduce microbial growth. More specifically, the methods and compositions described herein include contacting any surface with a composition comprising an anthocyanin or an anthocyanidin or metabolites thereof thereby reducing or preventing microbial growth on said surface. Further, the methods and compositions described herein include adding the composition comprising an anthocyanin or an anthocyanidin or metabolites thereof to liquid or fluid, including other sanitizing solutions and/or sanitizing components, thereby reducing or preventing microbial growth on said surface. Further still, the methods and compositions described herein include adding the composition comprising an anthocyanin or an anthocyanidin or metabolites thereof to any other vehicle, including but not limited to a powder, paste, cream foam, gel, wipes, other sanitizing components and the like thereby reducing or preventing microbial growth on said surface.

Plants are rich in phytochemicals, including a variety of secondary metabolites, such as tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids, and flavonoids. Many of these have been found in vitro to have antimicrobial properties. (see Dixon R A, Dey P M, Lamb C J. Phytoalexins: enzymology and molecular biology. Adv Enzymol. 1983; 55:1-69). The mechanisms thought to be responsible for phenolic toxicity to microorganisms include enzyme inhibition by the oxidized compounds, possibly through reaction with sulfhydryl groups or through more nonspecific interactions with the proteins. (see Mason T L, Inactivation of red beet beta-glucan synthase by native and oxidized phenolic compounds. Phytochemistry. 1987; 26:2197-2202). Additionally, reports suggest that various phytochemicals are effective against the biofilms. (see Tsuchiya H, Comparative study on the antibacterial activity of phytochemical flavanones against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. J Ethnopharmacol. 1996; 50:27-34.) Probable targets in the microbial cell are surface-exposed adhesins, cell wall polypeptides, and membrane-bound enzymes. (see Stern J L, Phlorotannin-protein interactions. J Chem Ecol. 1996; 22:1887-1899).

Studies and reports to date, however, have only focused upon extracts and compounds of which the exact ingredients are not known or identified. Percentage of the primary or active molecules in these extracts was not established in these reports. In addition, the active phytochemicals or molecules from these extracts have not been isolated in such a manner that the concentrations are known or established let alone established a percentage by weight of what would is the active phytochemical (phytochemical molecule) or provides any information on the purity of the remaining material.

Anthocyanins and anthocyanidins have been identified in the compounds and extracts of the various phytochemicals. Further, anthocyanins and anthocyanidins are known to have the potential to be the pro-drug of bioactive phenolic intermediates. (see Woodward G., Anthocyanin stability and recovery: Implications for the analysis of clinical and experimental samples. J. Agric Food Chem. 2009, 57, 5271-5278). Consideration has now been given to the bioactive role of the anthocyanin and anthocyanidin metabolites, particularly protocatechuic acid. (see Galvan F., Protocatechuic acid: The missing human cyanidins metabolite. Mol Nutr. Food Res. 2008, 52, 266-267). Anthocyanins are absorbed by gavage and previously it was thought that anthocyanins could not be absorbed in the intestines. When ingested, anthocyanins and anthocyanidins are unstable and are quickly metabolized into their metabolites. This instability and propensity to quickly degrade to their metabolites is a matter of interest when their antimicrobial nature is examined. It has also been established that they are absorbed into the plasma. (Cao G, Prior R L. Anthocyanins are detected in human plasma after oral administration of an elderberry extract. Clin Chem 1999; 45: 574-6.) For example, anthocyanins are rapidly metabolized; 75% of C3G is found as PCA in the plasma within 30 minutes of ingestion. (Vitaglione, P. et al., Protocatechuic acid is the major human metabolite of cyanidin-glucosides. J. Nutr. 2007, 137, 2043-2048).

Although the therapeutic potential for anthocyanins, anthocyanidins and their metabolites was considered in previous studies, these studies used phytochemicals extracted from plants (plant extracts); indeed, the nature, number and concentrations of these phytochemicals were not identified. Moreover, the purity of the material studied was unknown or, more importantly, not listed. Therefore the studies reporting use of these extracts rarely isolate or identify the active reagent from the many in the compound.

Extracts of phytochemicals have the likelihood of the presence of other plant substances, including but not limited to other anthocyanindins, anthocyanins, metabolites and even cellulose and heavy metals. Since anthocyanidins and anthocyanidins are particularly unstable, the multiplicity of these substances in a compound substantially prevents identification of the active component or compound. It may be the parent molecule or the metabolite. It may be a combination working in synergy.

Thus, a central problem solved by the present invention is the development of pharmaceutical compositions for the treatment of wounds comprising the anthocyanins and anthocyanidins and their metabolites. Additionally, the anthocyanins and anthocyanidins or their metabolites alone provide an effective method of promoting healing of wounds. These compositions also have broad spectrum activity against a wide range of microbes. These compositions, however, may also be used in combination with other wound treatments, including other antimicrobials. In certain embodiments, the additional antimicrobial is not sulfamethoxazole.

The identification of anthocyanins and anthocyanidins or combinations of anthocyanins, anthocyanidins or their metabolites that are bactericidal or antimicrobial was determined by conducting in vitro testing. Anthocyanidins that were tested at 100 mM included delphenindin, pelargonindin, and cyanidin Cl and cyanidin-3-glucoside. Protocatechuic acid and 2,4,6 trihydroxybenzaldehyde, the anthocyanidin metabolites, were also tested at the same concentrations. Referring to FIGS. 6-8, delphinidin limited growth against C. perfringens, S. aureus, and MRSA. Pelargonidin limited growth of P. acnes, C. perfingens, S. aureus, MRSA, and S. pyogenes. Cyanidin Cl was effective against C. difficile, C. prefringens, S. aureus ATCH 6538, S. aureus (MRSA) ATCH 33591, S. mutans, and S. pyogenes. C3G (approximately 28% by weight) had limited effectiveness during this study (18-24 hours for aerobes; 48 hours for anaerobes (C. albacans and L. casei). This proprietary C3G formulation, however, was effective against P. acnes, E. coli, MRSA, K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa. Protocathechuic acid (PCA), the main metabolite from anthocyanins and anthocyanidines, was effective against all bacteria tested as well as C. albicans and K. pneumonia. Importantly for skin wound treatment, PCA was effective against S. aureus 6538 and 33591 (MRSA) and P. aeruginosa. PCA was also effective on C. albicans, which is important considering its ability to form biofilms and difficulty in treating C. albicans when existing with a catheter or implant. 2,4,6 Trihydroxybenzaldehyde was effective against E. coli, K. pneumonia, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus 6538 and 33591 (MRSA); it also was effective against A. pullulans, ATCC 15233, a fungi.

While specific dosages of certain anthocyanins and anthocyanidins were determined to have the above mentioned effects against certain bacteria, in vivo testing were conducted to determine optimal dosages and to confirm the ability of a topical application of these compounds to have antimicrobial effect while prompting healing of a wound. It was hypothesized that certain dose and interval topical application of a water soluble solution of PCA and/or C3G (28% of C3G by weight) at certain concentrations based upon molecular weight would kill or reduce the bioburden of Pseudomonas aeruginosa while healing the wound as evidence by optimization of the local growth hormones and confirmed by histological evidence. Referring to FIG. 9, a decrease in bacterial burden in the skin at 96 hours days was noted (CFU means colony forming units). A concentration of 50 mM of PCA was found to be most effective; higher concentrations of PCA were not as effective at decreasing bacterial burdens. The most effective concentration of C3G was 100 mM. Importantly, histological evaluations of skin samples from the study confirmed healing at 48 and 96 hours with proliferation of parafollicular cells and migration to cover the skin surface. There was minimal inflammation in the dermis. There was collagen proliferation in the dermis. In this application, in some embodiments, anthocyanins or anthocyanidins and metabolites thereof are provided in concentrations of about 10 to 200 mM. In other embodiments, anthocyanins, or anthocyanidins, or metabolites thereof are provided in any recited composition or method of use in a range of between 20 to 200 mM. In yet other embodiments, the anthocyanin, anthocyanidin, or metabolites thereof provided in any recited composition or method of use is provided in a range of between 20 to 100 mM. In yet other embodiments, the anthocyanin, anthocyanidin, or metabolites thereof provided in any recited composition or method of use is provided in a range of between 20 to 50 mM. In a preferred embodiment, anthocyanins or anthocyanidins and or their metabolites are provided in concentrations of about 100 mM or less.

As provided in FIG. 1, bacteria have a range of pH at which growth is optimized, and most bacteria are more viable at basic pH ranges. Generally, anthocyanins, anthocyanidins and their metabolites also have an acidic pH and have the potential to have bactericidal or bacteriostatic modes of action. Because C3G and PCA reagents have an acidic pH, their bactericidal or bacteriostatic mode of action is by direct contact with the bacteria.

Anthocyanins and anthocyanidins were further studied to determine effects on wound healing, including whether they had any effect on the optimization of local growth hormone activity at the wound site along with other supporting histological evidence of promoting healing.

Local growth hormones are important substances in the control of wound healing. Equally as important, however, is to optimize the amount of these hormones desirable for promoting wound healing while avoiding scar formation and keloids.

Examples of common local growth hormones related to skin wound healing include Epidermal growth factor (EGF), Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and Transforming Growth Factor-Beta (TGF-β). Epidermal growth factor or EGF is a growth factor that stimulates cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation by binding to its receptor EGFR. IGF-1 is important in skin repair by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation and migration as well as collagen production by fibroblasts. Its expression is important during wound healing such that retarded healing has been correlated with reduced IGF-1 levels. While local administration of IGF-1 to wound sites enhanced wound closure and stimulated granulation tissue formation, increased IGF-1 receptor expression was reported in chronic wounds and in hypertrophic scars. Additionally, IGF-1 stimulation was associated with increased invasive capacity of keloid fibroblasts. Systemic delivery of IGF-1 also caused hyperglycemia, electrolyte imbalance, and edema. Therefore it is desirable to have slightly elevated but not over elevated IGF-1 by a treatment modality. TGF-β also is important in skin would healing; however, it is considered a pro-fibrotic growth factor and increased levels of TGF-β or prolonged presence has been identified as causing hypertrophic scaring.

Referring to FIGS. 11-13, tests were performed on rodent skin to explore the effects of PCA on the local growth hormones in rodent skin. A concentration of 25 mM PCA increased local growth hormone levels at the site of the untreated skin wound. In particular, FIG. 11 demonstrates that a single reagent or compound would optimize local growth hormones to promote healing without scarring. Approximately 25 mM PCA was the optimal reagent and dose. As demonstrated in FIG. 13, optimization is possible using the compositions of the present invention. In FIG. 13, all three local growth hormones were lowered in the simulated clinical pathological environment (stripped and infected); however, the lowering of these hormones was not to the extent of absences. Hence, the necessary IGF-1 is still above the controls in this environment; however, the scar forming properties of the other two hormones have been markedly reduced. Therefore, optimization of local growth hormones is achieved. In FIG. 13, the optional concentration of PCA was confirmed as 25 mM PCA in this situation and environment, meaning local growth hormone growth levels were optimized at this dosage such that IGF-1 as moderately elevated while TGF-β and EGF levels were decreased. This is important to promote wound healing while preventing potential scarring.

The therapeutic effective dose may vary depending on a wide variety of factors. For instance, the dose may vary depending on the formulation, method of application of the therapeutic reagent or combination with other reagents, or compositions, compounds or combination of compositions or compounds to the wound.

Methods (General)

According to one aspect of this invention, there is provided an antimicrobial composition and a method of promoting wound healing by reducing microbial growth. A method of promoting healing of a wound in a mammal is provided, comprising administering an anthocyanin or an anthocyanidin to the mammal in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of the anthocyanin or anthocyanidin compound wherein microbial growth is prevented or reduced and local growth hormone activity is optimized.

In a further embodiment, a method of promoting healing of a wound in a mammal is provided; comprising administering an anthocyanin metabolite or an anthocyanidin metabolite to the mammal in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of the metabolite or an anthocyanidin metabolite compound wherein microbial growth is reduced and local growth hormone activity is optimized.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, a method of treating P. acnes in a patient in need is provided, comprising administering an anthocyanin metabolite to the patient in need of treatment in an therapeutically effective amount of protocatechuic acid wherein growth of P. acnes is reduced.

In another aspect of the present invention, a method of prophylactically treating a preoperative skin incision site is provided, comprising administering an anthocyanin, an anthocyanidin and/or a metabolite to a patient in need of such treatment an effective amount of the anthocyanin or anthocyanidin compound wherein microbial growth is prevented or reduced.

In another aspect of the present invention, a method of disinfecting a surface comprising contacting said surface with an anthocyanin, an anthocyanidin and/or a metabolite thereof in an effective amount of the anthocyanin, anthocyanidin and/or metabolite compound wherein microbial growth is prevented, reduced or eliminated and, further, where the microbial growth that is reduced is methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

In another aspect of the present invention, a method of disinfecting a surface is provided comprising contacting said surface with an anthocyanin, an anthocyanidin and/or a metabolite thereof or combination thereof in an effective amount of the anthocyanin, anthocyanidin and/or metabolite or combination thereof wherein microbial growth is prevented, reduced or eliminated and, further, where the microbial growth that is reduced may be an endogenous or exogenous source, including but not limited to P. acnes, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, E. coli, S. epidermidis, S. pneumonia, and Streptococcus species.

In another aspect of the present invention, a method of post-operative treating a post-operative skin site is provided, comprising administering an anthocyanin, an anthocyanidin and/or a metabolite to a post-operative skin site, such as a skin graft, skin graft donor site, a microdermabrasion site, or a surgical incision site, in an effective amount of the anthocyanin, anthocyanidin and/or metabolite compound wherein microbial growth is prevented, reduced or eliminated and local growth hormone production is optimized.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, a method of post-operative treating a post-operative skin site is provided, comprising administering an anthocyanin, an anthocyanidin and/or a metabolite to a post-operative skin site, such as a skin graft, skin graft donor site, a microdermabrasion site, or a surgical incision site, in an effective amount of the anthocyanin, anthocyanidin and/or metabolite compound wherein microbial growth is prevented, reduced or eliminated and local growth hormone production is optimized.

Compositions

Disclosed herein, in one aspect, are antimicrobial compositions. The disclosed antimicrobial reagents and compositions can be used to eliminate, reduce, and/or prevent microorganism growth, viability, or survival.

In some embodiments and aspects, the disclosed antimicrobial composition can be selected from the list of anthocyanins, anthocyanidins, metabolites of anthocyanin and anthocyanidin metabolites, or a combination thereof. By way of example, the anthocyanin can be selected from cyanidin-3-glucoside or delphinidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-galactoside, and pelargonidin-3-galactoside. Also by way of example, the anthocyanidins can be selected from cyanidin, delphinidin, pelargonidin, malvidin and petunidin. By way of example, metabolites can be selected from protocatechuic acid, 2,3,4 trihydroxybenzaldehyde.

In yet another embodiment and aspect, the disclosed antimicrobial composition can be a phytochemical. By way of example, the phytochemical is a pterostilbene formulation.

In one aspect, the present invention provides for a pharmaceutical composition for promoting wound healing, comprising: a) an anthocyanin; or b) anthocyanidin. By way of example, the anthocyanin can be selected from cyanidin-3-glucoside or delphinidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-galactoside, and pelargonidin-3-galactoside. Also by way of example, the anthocyanidins can be selected from cyanidin, delphinidin, pelargonidin, malvidin and petunidin.

In one aspect, the present invention provides for a pharmaceutical composition for promoting wound healing, comprising: a) a phytochemical. By way of example, the phytochemical is a pterostilbene formulation.

In one aspect, for example, the present disclosure provides for a pharmaceutical composition comprising protocatechuic acid (PCA) whereby said composition reduces the growth of certain microbes, including P. acnes.

In one aspect, for example, the present disclosure provides for a pharmaceutical composition comprising cyanidin-3-glucoside whereby said composition reduces the growth of certain microbes, including H. pylori.

In one aspect, the present invention provides for a pharmaceutical composition for treating a wound, comprising: a) an anthocyanin; b) anthocyanidin; or c) a metabolite of an anthocyanin or anthocyanidin in an effective amount whereby microbial growth is reduced. By way of example, the anthocyanin can be selected from cyanidin-3-glucoside or delphinidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-galactoside, and pelargonidin-3-galactoside. Also by way of example, the anthocyanidins can be selected from cyanidin, delphinidin, pelargonidin, malvidin and petunidin. By way of example, metabolites can be selected from protocatechuic acid (PCA) and 2,3,4 trihydroxybenzaldehyde.

In another aspect, the pharmaceutical composition of this invention to treat a wound generally can include a concentration of the anthocyanins and anthocyanidins or metabolites thereof in a concentration of at least 25 mM concentration, not including the carrier. In yet another example, the pharmaceutical composition of this invention to treat a wound can include a concentration of the anthocyanins and anthocyanidins or metabolites thereof in a concentration of between 20 mM to 200 mM concentration, not including the carrier. In yet other embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition of this invention to treat a wound can include a concentration of the anthocyanin, anthocyanidin, or metabolites thereof provided in any recited composition or method of in a range of between 20 to 100 mM, not including the carrier. In another example, the pharmaceutical composition of this invention to treat a wound can include a concentration of the anthocyanin, anthocyanidin, or metabolites thereof provided in any recited composition or method of in a range of between 20 to 500 mM, not including the carrier.

Further, in one example, in a pharmaceutical composition of this invention, PCA can be provided in a concentration approximately 50-100 mM. Additionally, in one example, pterostilebene can be provided in a concentration of approximately 35-65 mM. Further, in one example, PCA can be provided in a concentration approximately 78 mM and pterostilebene at a concentration of approximately 40.6 mM to reduce microbial growth or eliminate growth. Further, in one example, PCA and pterostilbene can be provided in a combination in concentrations provided in this disclosure. In yet another example C3G would be provided at a dosage of 131, 261 and 522 mg/kg.

In one aspect, the present invention provides for a pharmaceutical composition for treating a wound, comprising: a) an anthocyanin; b) anthocyanidin; c) a metabolite of an anthocyanin or anthocyanidin; or d) a phytochemical in an effective amount whereby microbial growth is reduced. By way of example, the phytochemical is a pterostilbene formulation.

The present disclosure also provides for a pharmaceutical composition comprising: a) an anthocyanin metabolite; or b) an anthocyanidin metabolite. In another aspect, the present invention provides for a pharmaceutical composition for promoting wound healing, comprising: a) an anthocyanin metabolite; or b) and anthocyanidin metabolite. In yet another aspect, the present invention provides for a pharmaceutical composition for promoting wound healing, comprising a phytochemical. By way of example, metabolites can be selected from, protocatechuic acid, 2,3,4 trihydroxybenzaldehyde. By way of example, the phytochemical can be a pterostilbene formulation. In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides for a pharmaceutical composition comprising: a) a metabolite of an anthocyanin metabolite; or b) a metabolite of an anthocyanidin metabolite. By way of example, the metabolites are metabolites selected from protocatechuic acid, 2,3,4 trihydroxybenzaldehyde. In yet another aspect, the present invention provides for a pharmaceutical composition comprising a phytochemical. By way of example, the phytochemical can be a pterostilbene formulation.

The present disclosure provides for pharmaceutical compositions whereby the anthocyanin, anthocyanidin, anthocyanin metabolite, anthocyanidin metabolite, anthocyanin metabolite, or metabolites thereof, or phytochemical are isolated reagents.

The present disclosure also provides for routes of administration of the pharmaceutical compositions, including oral, injection, intravenous, topical, sublingual, buccal, inhalation, intradermal, subcutaneous, soft tissue, and cutaneous.

Oral administration of the compositions of this disclosure, including oral gavage, may include a liquid or semisolid form, tablet, pill, capsule, powder, or gel. Preferably, oral administration will be in a liquid composition. Compositions including a liquid pharmaceutically inert carrier such as water may be considered for oral administration. Other pharmaceutically compatible liquids or semisolids may also be used. The use of such liquids and semisolids is well known to those of skill in the art.

Intravenous and injection administration will be in liquid form. Other pharmaceutically compatible liquids or semisolids may also be used. The use of such liquids and semisolids is well known to those of skill in the art.

Preferably, the composition is formulated as a topical composition. More preferable, the vehicle of the topical composition delivery is in the form of a liquid, salve, soap, spray, foam, cream, emollient, gel, ointment, balm or transdermal patch.

In addition to the components and administration of said compositions disclosed above, the compositions can be in the form of an aqueous solution. The compositions disclosed herein can also be in the form of a liquid, gel, suspension, dispersion, solid, emulsion, aerosol, for example, powders, tablets, capsules, pills, liquids, suspensions, dispersions or emulsions. Also, the compositions disclosed herein can be in the form suitable for dilutions. Similarly, the compositions can be in the form of a powder, cream, paste, gel or solid that can be reconstituted.

Other components can be present in the composition, if desired. For example, the antimicrobial composition can also include at least one additive selected independently from a carrier, a diluent, an adjuvant, a solubilizing agent, a suspending agent, a filler, a surfactant, a secondary antimicrobial agent, a preservative, a viscosity modifier, a thixotropy modifier, a wetting agent, an emulsifier, or any combinations thereof. For example, the disclosed antimicrobial composition can further comprise at least one surfactant selected from a cationic surfactant, an anionic surfactant, a non-ionic surfactant, and an amphoteric surfactant. Additionally, the disclosed antimicrobial and/or pharmaceutical compositions may further comprise medicament is selected from the group consisting of burn relief medications, anesthetic agents, wound cleansers, antiseptic agents, scar reducing agents, immunostimulating agents, antiviral agents, antikeratolytic agents, anti-inflammatory agents, antifungal agents, acne treating agents, sunscreen agents, dermatological agents, antihistamine agents, antibacterial agents, bioadhesive agents, inhibitors of prostaglandin synthesis, antioxidants, and mixtures thereof.

Also, the disclosed antimicrobial compositions can optionally include one or more additives such as carriers, adjuvants, solubilizing agents, suspending agents, diluents, surfactants, other antimicrobial agents, preservatives, fillers, wetting agents, antifoaming agents, emulsifiers, and additives designed to affect the viscosity or ability of the composition to adhere to and/or penetrate the wound.

In one embodiment, the disclosed antimicrobial compositions, including the selected active components, including the anthocyanins or anthocyanidins and metabolites thereof, are without causing significant undesirable biological effects or interacting in a deleterious manner with any of the other components of the composition in which it is contained.

In one embodiment, the disclosed compositions, including the selected active components, including the anthocyanins or anthocyanidins and metabolites thereof, are provided as a nutraceutical and provided as a dietary supplement without causing significant undesirable biological effects or interacting in a deleterious manner with any of the other components of the foodstuff in which it is contained.

In one aspect, the antimicrobial composition provided herein, including anthocyanins or anthocyanidins and metabolites thereof, are used in agricultural settings, including but not limited to nurseries, commercial farming, agricultural research facilities, residential gardens and produce processing facilities, and are applied to plants and trees to inhibit, reduce or substantially eliminate microbial bioburden as well as many fungal bioburden on plants, trees, and surfaces thereof, including leaf surfaces.

In another embodiment, antiseptic compositions of the present invention are formulated for use in liquids, solutions, gels, soaps, creams, powders salves and other preparations designed for topical use as antiseptic agents, sprays, foams, antibacterial treatments, wipes and the like. In another embodiment, antiseptic compositions of the present invention are formulated as a hand antiseptic.

In yet another embodiment, antiseptic compositions of the present invention are used in industrial settings such as in water treatment facilities, including swimming pools or water treatment plants, food preparation, including but not limited to poultry and fish processing facilities or produce handling and packaging settings to inhibit, reduce or substantially eliminate microbial bioburden, as well as many fungal bioburden. In addition to adding the antiseptic composition to a water supply or water supply system, industrial equipment and surfaces may be contacted with, or soaked in, the antiseptic compositions of the present invention.

In yet another embodiment, sanitizing compositions of the present invention are formulated for use in liquids, solutions, gels, soaps, and other preparations designed for use as sanitizing agents, liquids, including sprays, foams, gels, soaps, sanitizing treatments, and the like when used as a sanitizing solution, including but not limited to, use in food processing facilities, including food-processing equipment and utensils, and on other food-contact articles.

In yet another embodiment, sanitizing compositions of the present invention use in food processing facilities, including food-processing equipment and utensils, and on other food-contact articles are formulated to include any components generally recognized as safe for use in food processing facilities, including but not limited to, aqueous solutions containing potassium, sodium or calcium hypochlorite, a solution of hydrogen peroxide, an aqueous solution containing potassium iodide, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium-toluenesulfonchloroamide, solutions containing dodecylbenzensulfonic acid, other acceptable detergents and the like.

In one aspect, the one or more of the additives can be an agent that is acceptable when used in or on foods and beverages and which can be consumed by a mammal (e.g., human, pet, livestock, etc.) along with the selected active components, including the anthocyanins or anthocyanidins and metabolites thereof, without causing significant undesirable biological effects or interacting in a deleterious manner with any of the other components of the composition in which it is contained.

In another aspect, the compositions of the present invention, including those compositions comprising: a) an anthocyanin; or b) an anthocyanidin; or c) a metabolite of an anthocyanin metabolite; or d) a metabolite of an anthocyanidin metabolite, or e) a combination thereof, are used in food processing, packing, manufacturing, handling, preparing, treating, transporting or holding as a food additive without causing undesirable effects or interacting in a deleterious manner. By way of example, protocatechuic acid can be used as an additive in meat, including the handling and processing, without causing undesirable effects or interacting in a deleterious manner with the meat.

In yet another aspect, the compositions of the present invention, including those compositions comprising: a) an anthocyanin; or b) an anthocyanidin; or c) a metabolite of an anthocyanin metabolite; or d) a metabolite of an anthocyanidin metabolite, or e) a combination thereof, are used in food processing, including cold sterilization of food containers, including bottles, without causing undesirable effects or interacting in a deleterious manner.

In other examples, the antimicrobial compositions disclosed herein can further comprise a carrier. The term “carrier” means a compound, composition, substance, or structure that, when in combination with a compound or composition disclosed herein, facilitates preparation, administration, delivery, effectiveness, or any other feature of the compound or composition. Examples of carriers include water, ethanol, polyols (propyleneglycol, polyethyleneglycol, glycerol, and the like), vegetable oils, and suitable mixtures thereof. “Pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” means a compound, composition, substance, or structure that is useful in neither preparing a pharmaceutical composition which is generally safe, non-toxic, and neither biologically nor otherwise undesirable and includes that which is acceptable for veterinary as well as human pharmaceutical use.

In a further example, the antimicrobial compositions disclosed herein can also comprise adjuvants such as preserving, wetting, emulsifying, suspending agents, and dispensing agents. Prevention of the action of other microorganisms can be accomplished by various antifungal agents, for example, parabens, chlorobutanol, phenol, and the like.

Suitable suspending agents can include, for example, ethoxylated isostearyl alcohols, polyoxyethylene sorbitol and sorbitan esters, microcrystalline cellulose, aluminum metahydroxide, bentonite, agar-agar and tragacanth, or mixtures of these substances, and the like.

The disclosed antimicrobial compositions can also comprise solubilizing agents and emulsifiers, as for example, ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, ethyl carbonate, ethyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, benzyl alcohol, benzyl benzoate, propyleneglycol, 1,3-butyleneglycol, dimethylformamide, oils, in particular, cottonseed oil, groundnut oil, corn germ oil, olive oil, castor oil and sesame oil, glycerol, tetrahydrofur fury 1 alcohol, polyethyleneglycols and fatty acid esters of sorbitan or mixtures of these substances, and the like. The additives can be present in the disclosed compositions in any amount for the individual anthocyanin or anthocyanidin compound components.

Compositions and Misc. Methods

This disclosure also provides for a method comprising contacting a surface with an effective amount of the antimicrobial composition. By the term “effective amount” of a composition as provided herein is meant an amount of a composition sufficient to provide the desired benefit, either bactericidal or bacteriostatic (e.g., reduction or prevention of microorganism growth or survival). As disclosed herein, the exact amount required will vary from use to use depending on a variety of processing parameters, as understood by one of ordinary skill, such as the type of surface, the type of microorganism to be treated, the surface size, the mode of deliver (e.g., aerosol, spraying or dipping), and the like. Determination of what constitutes an “effective amount” is made by routine testing with known concentrations and adjusting those concentrations as needed to obtain the desired benefit and can be determined by one of ordinary skill in the art using only routine experimentation.

When the antimicrobial composition of this invention is applied to a surface to be treated, the antimicrobial composition generally can include a concentration of the anthocyanins and anthocyanidins of at least 25 mM concentration, not including the carrier. Further, the isolated anthocyanins, anthocyanidins, or metabolites compounds this invention will be between 90%-97% by weight of the compound, and more preferably, between 95%-98% by weight of the compound.

When the antimicrobial composition or compositions of this invention are applied to a surface to be treated may be diluted for use as a sanitizer or as a preventive or prophylactically, and at greater concentrations for treatment.

EXAMPLES Example 1 Use of in vitro Studies for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing of Anthocyanins, Anthocyanidins, or Metabolites and Compounds Thereof

This example describes the method for testing the antimicrobial susceptibility of anthocyanins, anthocyanidins, or metabolites and compounds thereof. The Kirby-Bauer method of disc diffusion was used for testing, following a standard set of procedures recommended by the NCCLS. In this methodology, a set of discs saturated with either testing compounds or a control was placed on inoculated agar plates. The plates were inoculated with organisms listed in the tables provided in FIG. 6, including C. difficile, P. acnes, C. prefringens, L. casei, C. albicans, E. coli, ATTC 8739 and ATCC 43895, S. aureus, S. mutans, S. pyogenes, P. aeruginosa and K. pneumonia. The control sample was amoxicillin, an antimicrobial with very effective broad spectrum antibiotic properties. Samples included delphinidin, pelargonidin, cyanidin Cl, 28% cyanindin-3-glucoside (C3G), protocatechuic acid (PCA) and 2,4,6 Trihydroxybenzaldehyde (2,4,6 THBA).

After 18, 24, or 48 hours of incubation, depending upon the microorganism, each plate was examined. The diameters of the zones of complete inhibition were measured, including the diameter of the disc. Zones were measured to the nearest millimeter, using sliding calipers. The size of the zones of inhibition was interpreted by referring to NCCLS standard. Results were interpreted as follows: NI was no inhibition of growth under the test sample, I was inhibition of growth under the test sample, NZ indicated no zone of inhibition surrounding the test sample, and CZ indicated a clear zone of inhibition surrounding the sample and zone width in millimeters. See FIG. 6 for complete results.

Results

Referring to FIG. 6, the testing samples had bactericidal and bacteriostatic activity against many of the organisms. Of note, P. acnes, an organism that is very difficult to treat, often requiring multiple current antibiotics for effective treatment, was susceptible to both C3G and PCA. Indeed, both of these test samples were bactericidal against P. acnes. Additionally, PCA was also effective against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 33591, known as Methacillin Resistant Staph Aureus (MRSA).

PCA was also shown to have some effectiveness against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a common pathogen in wounds, especially burns. Amoxicillin, the control sample, had no effect on P. aeruginosa. Similarly, Candida albicans, frequently a co pathogen in wounds, was susceptible to PCA.

In summary, the present invention provides advantages over the prior art, including providing anthocyanin, anthocyanidin, their metabolites or combinations thereof to a wound to provide a reduction or elimination of bacteria. It is contemplated that the invention will also find use in the treatment of surfaces, including medical devices and medical implants, to reduce or eliminate bacteria.

Example 2 Use of Mouse Model to Determine Dose Levels and Intervals of Test Samples

Methods:

Mice had back skin tape stripped and the stripped site (wound) was infected with P. P. aeruginosa (ACTA 9027). The test reagents were applied topically in an aqueous solution on the stripped site at two hours and daily for four days.

Cyanidin 3-glucoside (C3G), an anthocyanin, and its main metabolite PCA were formulated and tested at several doses. The aqueous carrier was water. The C3G formulation included 50 mM, 100 mM and 200 mM dose concentrations. Similarly, the PCA formulation included at 50, 100 and 200 mM dose concentrations.

Results

Results were collected from the mice at day five. Both C3G and PCA decreased the bacterial burden; however, none were statistically significant. See FIG. 9a . There was a trend towards a decreasing concentration of PCA, with 50 mM being the most effective. The most effective dose of C3G was 100 mM. It is contemplated that because C3G degrades to PCA in this environment, the test results may indicate that C3G was not being tested alone, but rather was a combination of C3G and its metabolites, including a combination of C3G and PCA as the effective agents.

Example 3 Use of Mouse Model to Further Determine Effective Dose Levels and Dose Intervals of Test Samples

Methods:

Mice had back skin tape stripped and the stripped site (wound) was infected with P. aeruginosa (ACTA 27853). The test reagents were applied topically in an aqueous solution on the stripped site at two hours and daily on day 1, 2 and 3.

C3G, an anthocyanin and its main metabolite PCA were formulated and tested at several doses. The aqueous carrier was water. The C3G formulation included 100 mM and 200 mM dose concentrations and the PCA formulation included 25 and 50 mM dose concentrations.

Results

Results were collected from the mice at day two and four. Both C3G and PCA decreased the bacterial burden at 48 and 96 hours. (See FIG. 9b ) The most significant decrease of bacteria was observed at 25 mM of and 100 and 200 mM of C3G. Although PCA at 25 mM reduced the bacterial burden at both time periods, its activity was statistically significant at 48 hours. C3G at both 100 mM and 200 mM significantly reduced the bacterial burden at 48 and 96 hours.

Example 4 Use of a Mouse Model for Wound Healing

Methods:

Mice were shaved but unstrapped and uninfected (normal rodent skin). The test reagents were applied topically in an aqueous solution on the unstripped site at two hours and daily on day 1, 2 and 3.

Testing reagents consisted of C3G and PCA formulated at one dose, 100 μM in an aqueous solution.

Results:

Referring to FIG. 10, there was little or no stimulation of IGF-1 and TGF-β at local levels observed at the 100 μM concentration of testing reagents. In fact, levels of EGF actually decreased below normal levels. There was observed a decrease of all three local growth hormones at 100 uM of C3G. These results suggest that mice skin differs in response to a dose that has been shown to stimulate human synovium to produce IGF-1. Thus, this low of a dose is not useful for rodents for this purpose.

Example 5 Use of Mouse Model to Determine Isolated Effect of 25 mM Solution of PCA in Various Environments

Methods:

Four different conditions were used: mice had back skin tape stripped and the stripped site (wound) was infected with P. aeruginosa; mice had back skin stripped and were not infected, mice had taped stripped, infected and treated with PCA, mice were tape stripped, uninfected, and treated with PCA. When used, the PCA test reagent was applied topically in an aqueous solution on the stripped site at two hours and 24 hours.

The testing reagents consisted of and PCA formulated at one dose, 25 mM, in an aqueous solution. Levels of IGF-1, TGF-β, and EGF levels in the skin tissue at 48 hours were measured by ELISA. There were two control groups; the stripped skin and the stripped skin and infected.

Results:

Referring to FIG. 13, the infected stripped skin showed the highest level with IGF-1 (statistically significant) and TGF-β. This is representative of tissue response to injury and infection; similarly, the EGF response was very inconsistent compared to the other two growth hormones.

The EGF response levels were different than either IGF-1 or TGF-β. They were highest in the stripped and uninfected wound and lowest in the stripped, infected and treated wound. Therefore, the treatment optimized the amount of hormone production compared to the untreated infection. This is beneficial to limit scarring while promoting healing over the controls. Overall, PCA at 25 mM acts on stripped and infected mice skin and optimizes the IGF-1 production and optimizes the local growth hormones.

Example 6 Use of Mice to Establish Wound Promoting Effect of Compositions

Method:

Fifteen rodents were used to establish the histological findings of stripped skin, stripped and infected skin, and stripped, infected and treated wound. There were two control groups and four experimental groups according to the following:

Control Group 1: three mice with only tape stripped wounds on the back. These mice were not infected or treated. The skin was harvested at time zero, 2 and 48 hours for histology examination.

Control Group 2: three had tape stripped wounds and infection. Tissue submitted at 2 and 48 hours for histological examination.

Experimental Groups: There were 4 experimental groups. In these groups, mice had skin stripped wounds and infection. Treatment varied by reagent and dosage. Testing reagents included PCA at 25 at 25 and 50 mM and C3G at 100 and 200 mM.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) procured from American Type Culture Collection, Manassas, Va. was used to infect the experimental groups of mice. The organism was grown overnight at 37° C. at ambient atmosphere trypticase soy agar plates supplemented with 5% sheep blood cells. The culture will be aseptically swabbed and transferred to tubes of trypticase soy broth. The optical density will be determined at 600 nm. The cultures will be diluted to provide an inoculum of approximately 9.0 log₁₀ CFU per mouse in a volume of 100 μL. Inoculum count was estimated before inoculation by optical density and confirmed after inoculation by dilution and back count.

The testing reagents were topically applied at 2 and 24 hours with 100 uL of fluid spread over the wound.

The following histological assessments were conducted:

Surface Cellularity: The histological assessment included the presence or absence of the surface cellularity and the depth of the cells.

Dermis:

Thickness: The thickness of the dermal layer was observed.

Hair Follicles: The hair follicles and the layer of surrounding cells were observed. Hair follicles presence is critically important to skin wound healing. (Gharzi A, Reynolds A J, Jahoda C A. Plasticity of hair follicle dermal cells in wound healing and induction. Exp Dermatol. 2003 April; 12 (2):126-36). The dermal sheath surrounding the hair follicle has the progenitor cells for contributing fibroblasts for wound healing. (Johada C A, Reynolds A J. Hair follicle dermal sheath cells: unsung participants in wound healing. Lancet. 2001 Oct. 27; 358(9291):1445-8).

Vascularity: Vascularity was observed, but an assessment of angiogenesis was not performed on the 48 hour material since new vascularity takes three to twelve days to develop. (Busuioc C J, et al. Phases of cutaneous angiogenesis process in experimental third-degree skin burns: histological and immunohistochemical study. Rom J Morphol Embryol. 2013; 54(1):163-710.)

Inflammation: The presence of cellular infiltration was observed and its location.

Skin Thickness: The thickness of the skin was estimated related to the uninfected, untreated wound. This depth was estimated on the uniform histology photomicrographs from the surface to the muscle layer.

Results:

The following results were observed in each group:

Control Group 1: Uninfected and Untreated.

Time Zero: (See FIGS. 14-15) At time zero following the wound stripping there was cellular covering of the surface. The dermal layer was not thickened. The hair follicles have a single cellular lining. There was minimal vascularity and no inflammation. The depth of the tissue was considered zero for future bench mark. 0+

2 hours: (See FIGS. 16-17) At 2 hours following the wound stripping the surface remained covered with cellularity. The dermal layer was minimally thickened. The follicles and cellular lining was the same. There was minimal increase in vascularity and inflammation. The increase in the depth of the tissue was considered 0.5+.

48 hours: (See FIGS. 18-19) At 48 hours the wound stripped, uninfected, untreated specimens showed natural history response of surface cellular proliferation and thickness. The dermal layer was thickened. The hair follicles were present with single layer cellular lining. The vascularity was increased in amount compared to the 2 hour specimens. The inflammation was present throughout the dermis and muscle layer. The thickness was considered 0.5+.

Control Group 2: Infected and Untreated.

2 hours: (See FIGS. 20-21) The histological assessment showed the wound stripped, infected, but untreated controls at 2 hours to have multiple cellular covering on surface. There was minimal thickening of the dermal layer. The hair follicles were abundant and had double layer cellular lining. There was minimal vascularity and no inflammation in the specimens. The thickness was assigned 0.5+.

48 hours: (See FIGS. 22-23) At 48 hours the surface cellular covering was gone. The dermal layer had minimal thickening. The hair follicles were present, with minimal cellularity lining. There was marked increase in vascularity and minimal inflammation in dermis layer. The depth was considered 0.5+ compared to time zero.

Experimental Group PCA 25 mM

48 hours: (See FIGS. 24-25) The cellular covering of the surface was abundant and multiple cell layers. The dermal layer was thickened. The hair follicles were prominent with multiple cellular lining. There was collagen proliferation between the epidermis and dermis. Additionally, there was moderate vascularity, but less than that seen in infected untreated group. There was abundant inflammation and it was greater than was seen in the PCA 50 dose. Thickness was assigned 2+.

Experimental Group PCA 50 mM

48 hours: (See FIGS. 26-27) The surface was covered with multiple layers of cells. The dermal layer was thicker. The hair follicles had double layer of cells. There was increased vascularity. Inflammation also increased in the dermis and below the muscle layer. The tissue thickness was assigned 2+.

Experimental Group C3G 100 mM

48 Hours: (See FIGS. 28-29) There was multiple cellular covering of the surface. The dye of the C3G was apparent on the skin surface indicating it had not changed color due to pH nor completely degraded. The dermal layer was thicker. The hair follicle had single and double cellular lining. The vascularity was prominent. There was inflammation in the dermis and muscular layer and below. The thickness of the tissue was assigned 2+.

Experimental Group C3G 200 mM

48 Hours: (See FIGS. 30-31) There was evidence of the C3G material remaining on the skin surface. The surface cellular layer was multiple cells thick. The dermal layer was thickened. The hair follicles had single and double cellular lining. The vascularity was increased. There was inflammation in the dermis and muscular layer. The thickness was assigned 2+.

These results confirm that an anthocyanin (˜38% C-3-G as the source) and the main metabolite of anthocyanins and anthocyanidins, protocatechuic acid (PCA) when applied topically at various calculated doses to the stripped skin wound of a rodent were bactericidal in 48 to 96 hours. There was a 10,000 fold kill of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in 48 hours with both reagents and dose.

The results also show by histology a simultaneous healing of the experimentally created wound in the same time frame. C-3-G and PCA in two different doses stimulated tissue repair as evidence by histology.

Specifically, the experimental model provided evidence of a histological contrast between the control and experimental groups. At 48 hours, Control Group 2 that was wound stripped and infected showed a clear contrast to the uninfected Control Group 1. In the skin stripped infected group there was loss of the epithelial cellular covering, no follicular cellular proliferation, marked increase in vascularity and little inflammatory response. This histological condition provided clear contrast to the treatment groups. All treatment groups by comparison showed healing response with multiple layer cellular proliferation on the surface, multiple layer cellular proliferation along the hair follicles, less vascularity, but an inflammatory cellular response in the dermis and muscular levels. See FIGS. 14-31. PCA at a concentration of 25 mM also showed collagen layer formation between the epidermis and dermis. (See FIGS. photos 24 and 25). This response is beneficial in the use of anthocyanin and anthocyanidins and metabolites thereof as a cosmetic agent to promote wound healing and improve skin health, including wrinkle reduction or removal. This method of use of anthocyanin and anthocyanidin metabolites, and particularly PCA, is based upon the two fold response; the collagen layer increase and the skin swelling that increased the depth of the skin. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method of treating a wound to promote healing consisting essentially of administering an amount of protocatechuic acid (“PCA”) wherein the PCA is administered topically to the wound in an aqueous solution at a concentration of 10 to 200 mM, and wherein said administration results in: a. promoting wound healing; b. the reduction of at least one microbe selected from the group consisting of C. difficile, P.acnes, C. perfringens, L. casei, E. coli, S. aureus 6538 and S. aureus 33591 (MRSA), S. mutans, S. pyogenes, P.aeruginosa, K. pneumonia; and c. ablicans; c. an increase in localized IGF-1; and d. a reduction in localized TGF-B and EGF.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the composition is in the form of a liquid, solution, cream, ointment, salve, powder, gel, emulsion, suspension, dispersion, solid, aerosol, powder, paste or a patch.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the wound is a burn, skin break, bone break, muscle tear, puncture, surgical incision site, microdermabrasion site, skin graft site, a wound associated with diabetes, a bed sore, a pressure sore, or a laceration.
 4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the composition is administered in ultradeformable liposomes.
 5. The method of claim 1 wherein the concentration of PCA is 20 to 100 mM.
 6. The method of claim 1 wherein the concentration of PCA is 20-50mM.
 7. The method of claim 1 wherein the concentration of PCA is 25 mM.
 8. The method of claim 1 wherein the concentration of PCA is 50 mM. 